Is It Possible to Get Flawless Clear Skin in a Day?

by Mary Gray ; Updated July 18, 2017

A woman with flawless skin is washing her face.

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Like anything worth having in life, achieving flawless skin takes time and effort -- so it's impossible to make your complexion picture-perfect in just one day. But make some changes to your skincare regimen, makeup habits and diet, and you likely will see a substantial difference in due time.

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Skincare Basics

The best facial products depend on your skin type, but when choosing one as your daily cleanser, pay attention to the ingredients. Look for mild products containing deep-cleansing agents like Kaolin, a special clay extract used as a beauty aid for centuries. Cleansers containing benzoyl peroxide are ideal for treating inflammatory acne (red pimples) while those with salicylic acid are typically less irritating to sensitive skin and ideal for combating comedonal acne (whiteheads and blackheads). To get the best possible long-term results for your skin type, consult a dermatologist.

Makeup Matters

Instead of slathering on a full face of foundation, spot-treat dark or red patches. Be sure your products are labeled "oil-free" and "noncomedogenic" to reduce the occurrence of clogged pores and resulting breakouts. Though makeup is a quick fix during the day, it can be detrimental to your skin if you leave it on overnight -- always wash off the day's dirt and oil before bedtime.

Diet Details

Avoid refined carbohydrates, which spike your insulin levels. Research suggests this causes reactions that lead to breakouts. Load up on proteins, fruits and veggies, and drink plenty of water to keep skin hydrated. Opt for whole grains and make almonds your afternoon pick-me-up instead of chips or a cookie.

Photo Credits

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About the Author

A pop culture junkie, Italophile and chronic sufferer of the travel bug, Mary Gray is an arts, entertainment and travel writer. Based in Florence, Italy, she is the Tuscany news editor of "The Florentine" English newspaper, co-manages social media for an international tour operator, and has been published in Italian daily "La Repubblica."